Immigration Medical Exam

For most people who want to obtain lawful permanent resident status in the United States, an immigration medical exam and vaccinations are required. At Chicago Medical Center, we offer the immigration exam to any patients seeking a visa or green card, or who are otherwise required to get a USCIS medical exam by a designated civil surgeon here at Chicago Medical Center and will be glad to answer your questions during your exam.

Sealed Envelope containing Form I-693 with other pertinent medical results

What is an Immigration Medical Exam?

An immigration medical exam, or immigration physical, is a special type of exam that can only be performed by a physician designated by USCIS. These types of immigration doctors known as “civil surgeons” and are the only kinds qualified to conduct the exam. The civil surgeon will screen you for specific medical conditions that may affect your visa or green card eligibility. The immigration exam is not a comprehensive exam; while your doctor may find other health issues during your exam, they are not required to proceed with further testing on those conditions. The civil surgeon is only required to test for conditions listed by USCIS.

What Do I Need to Bring to My Exam?

You need to bring in a photo ID and your alien number, as well as Form I-693, available on the USCIS website. If you have an old form, print a new one to make sure you have the most up-to-date version. You may complete Part 1 of your form before you come in for your exam. However, make sure you do not sign your form until instructed by your physician to do so. The civil surgeon will use Form I-693 to track and report the results of your medical exam. After the examination and the appropriate forms have been completed, your doctor will sign and seal Form I-693 in an envelope, along with any supporting documents. The civil surgeon will then give you the sealed envelope. Do not open the envelope. It is your responsibility to mail the envelope to USCIS, and it must remain unopened. USCIS will not accept the envelope if it has been opened or distinctly altered.

What Happens During an Immigration Physical?

During an immigration exam, the civil surgeon will discuss with you your medical history and will complete a physical exam, chest x-ray, and blood tests for syphilis. Please make sure to mention any conditions you already know about, such as diabetes, mental illness, or pregnancy, to assist the civil surgeon in thoroughly completing the exam. You should also provide a list of medications you are currently taking, as well as vaccinations you are up-to-date on. If you have ever tested positive for tuberculosis or syphilis, or have had an abnormal chest x-ray, please bring a certificate from your doctor outlining the details of your result and any treatment that you received for those issues.

How Much Does an Immigration Medical Exam Cost?

At Chicago Medical Center, we offer the immigration physical for $150.00 with valid vaccination records. This includes PPD (tuberculosis skin test), syphilis blood test, gonorrhea test, and the physical exam. If you do not have valid vaccination records, the exam will cost $350 and includes the above, as well as a tetanus shot, blood test for varicella, and blood test for MMR. During flu season, the flu vaccine will cost an additional $25. If you test positive for certain conditions or do not have the necessary vaccinations, there will be additional fees to have the required vaccinations or for treatment of positive medical conditions.

If you’d like to make an appointment or you have questions or concerns about the immigration exam, please call us at 773-772-5111.